In your own words, describe what your role is at the bank:
I am currently the Loan Operations Supervisor for Heartland Bank. I develop and implement training plans along with assisting in all aspects of the loan processing / closing and servicing of loans at the bank. I assist with technology and loan software upgrades. Additionally, I create and maintain loan procedures for our lending team. Last but not least I coach and promote culture to our associates.

How did you get into banking?
After college I moved to western Nebraska with my husband. I took a job at a bank with no intentions to pursue a career in banking. However, it did not take long to realize that a career in banking was right for me. I have always felt that I have had a voice in decision making, my talents are being utilized, and my potential for growth is endless.

​What does effective leadership look like to you?
I believe effective leadership is the ability to identify, develop and utilize the strengths of their resources. In my experience, I know that the most effective organizations work to ensure that they have the right people doing the right jobs. Great leaders delegate responsibility to the most capable. They help those who are doing well to do well and inspire those who are doing well to do better.

Why is banking a great career?
Banking is a great career because it is challenging and impactful. As we move through these times of uncertainty, it has been very powerful for me to see how my work has helped many people in my community. I am continually working on new and different projects and never have a shortage of challenges I have to face.

Share your favorite book, podcast or quote. Why is it your favorite?
I have always liked Nelson Mandela’s quote, "I never lose. I either win or I learn." This saying reminds me that winning doesn’t have to mean coming in first. It means doing better than you’ve ever done before. That is great motivation for me to continue to work hard and improve.

Is there anything else you'd like people to know about you or banking?
I am so grateful for the opportunities that working at a community bank has provided me. I appreciate that the bank not only allows me to be involved in our community – it encourages me to do so.

In your own words, describe what your role is at the bank:
I am a lender in our commercial loan department. I assist businesses large and small with financing for real estate, equipment and daily operating costs.

How did you get into banking?
I was given the opportunity to intern at a community bank in the summer of 2014 and enjoyed it so much that I knew I wanted to be a career banker.

What does effective leadership look like to you?
Effective leaders have a clear goal and open communication with their teams. In pursuit of the goal, they identify strengths and foster the growth and development of the individuals on their team, leading to a more efficient and effective team dynamic.

Why is banking a great career?
I continually say that banking is a great career for anyone. I believe this to be true because with the many different departments and skill sets that are needed to make a bank function effectively, it's possible for nearly anyone to find a place that they're passionate about and thrive in.

Share your favorite book, podcast or quote. Why is it your favorite?
A quote a high school coach always said is one that will always stick with me: "The two things in life that you have total control over are your attitude and your effort."

In your own words, describe what your role is at the bank:
I am responsible for an $80+ million loan portfolio consisting of a mix of commercial and agricultural lending relationships. Functions include heavy emphasis in community involvement, actively building customer and prospective relationships, managing / advising customers with ongoing financial monitoring and dialogue to maximize bank and client business performance. Duties also include assisting in the management and administration of the Bank's SBA lending functions.

How did you get into banking?
I originally was looking to get into financial planning during college and was wanting a summer job. I had a friend that was working at First State Bank & Trust in Fremont, who encouraged me to think about coming to work there in the summer. I was offered a teller job and worked there until I graduated from college and took up employment as a mortgage / consumer lender.

What does effective leadership look like to you?
​Effective leadership must have the cornerstones of effective listening and a servant's heart. Leaders must be willing to listen more than they speak, allowing them to best know how to effectively approach each circumstance that they encounter. Also, leaders must be willing to serve and get their hands dirty as well, approaching every situation with a positive team approach.

Why is banking a great career?
Banking is a ground-up, growth-oriented industry that rewards hard work and those that continue to want to pursue knowledge and self-improvement. Every day is a learning experience and gives you a chance to make impacts in your community and be a part of something bigger than yourself. If you want a job, seek elsewhere. If you want a career, choose banking.

Share your favorite book, podcast or quote. Why is it your favorite?
It's a tie..."Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action" by Simon Sinek and "You Are Worth It: Building A Life Worth Fighting For" by Kyle Carpenter.

In your own words, describe what your role is at the bank:
Guide and manage my team at the Clay Center branch to grow and continue to provide the best customer service we can give to our customers. I work with Ag and Commercial customers to achieve their business/financial goals.

How did you get into banking?
I worked in the accounting/tax field for 10 years prior, when the bank approached me about a job opportunity and a chance to work in my community I call home today.

What does effective leadership look like to you?
Leading by example and still being a team player to get work accomplished. I'm very supportive of my employees and passionate about their growth within our bank. I would say most importantly being trustworthy to my employees and customers so they know that I'm here for them and their needs.

Why is banking is a great career?
Banking is being part of your community and helping individuals and businesses reach their goals and sharing the joy of their success stories with them.

Share your favorite book, podcast or quote. Why is it your favorite?
"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away." -Maya Angelou